RSA-227 for FY-2025: Submission #5

State name Florida

Report through date 09/30/2025

General Information

Designated Agency Identification

Name Disability Rights Florida

Address 2473 Care Drive

Address Line 2 Suite 200

City Tallahassee

State Florida

Zip Code 32308

E-mail Address CherieH@disabilityrightsflorida.org

Website Address https://www.disabilityrightsflorida.org

Phone 850-488-9071

TTY 800-346-4127

Toll-free Phone 800-342-0823

Toll-free TTY 800-346-4127

Fax 850-488-8640

Operating Agency (if different from Designated Agency)

Name

Address

Address Line 2

City

Zip Code

State

E-mail Address

Website Address

Phone

TTY

Toll-free Phone

Toll-free TTY

Fax

Additional Information

Name of CAP Director/Coordinator Allison Klein, CAP Manager/Director

Person to contact regarding report Allison Klein, CAP Manager/Director

Contact Person Phone 850-617-9752

Contact Person E-mail Address allisonk@disabilityrightsflorida.org

Part I. Non-case Services

A. Information and Referral Services (I&R)

1. Information regarding the vocational rehabilitation (VR) program 85

2. Information regarding independent living programs 14

3. Information regarding American Indian VR Service projects 0

4. Information regarding Title I of the ADA 259

5. Other information provided 2

6. Information regarding CAP 57

7. Total I&R services provided (Lines A1 through A6) 417

B. Training Activities

1. Number of training sessions presented to community groups and public agencies. 34

2. Number of individuals who attended these training sessions. 5176

3. Describe training presented by the staff. Include the following information: 1. 2025 DRF Public Forum at Family Café Presentation
a. Topics included information about Disability Rights Florida (DRF) and its services, followed by public input where DRF staff and board members facilitated discussion at individual tables and asked respondents questions to record their answers and opinions.
b. The purpose of the public forum was to give attendees the opportunity to provide DRF with input into the work we do and to also give us insight into emerging issues in the disability community.
c. Attendees included 51 individuals with disabilities, family members, and direct service providers.

2. 2025 Florida Self-Advocacy Conference -The Power of Our Voices
a. Topics included information about DRF and its services.
b. The purpose of this conference was to educate and provide awareness on the programs and services DRF provides to people with developmental disabilities in Florida.
c. Attendees included 80 individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, parents, family members, caregivers, and state and local vendors.

3. 2025 Securing Their Future Outreach and Panel Presentation
a. Topics included information about DRF and transition services.
b. The purpose of this event was to help families know what is available to them once their disabled child becomes an adult.
c. Attendees included 114 children and young adults with disabilities and their families.

4. AMIGOS Drop-In Center Rights Training, Voting Presentation and Outreach August 2025
a. Topics included information about DRF and voting rights.
b. The purpose was to educate attendees about their rights, voting rights and Disability Rights Florida services and solicit input about the needs of individuals with disabilities.
c. Attendees included 30 individuals with significant mental illness and/or substance use disorders who require significant care, treatment, and community supports to live in the community.

5. A Rai of Sunshine of North Florida Inc.
a. Topics included information on DRF and the programs and services offered.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness of DRF programs and services to the staff at Rai of Sunshine.
c. Attendees included 3 individuals who were the President/Owner, Vice President, and Administrative Assistant.

6. Arc Jacksonville
a. Topics included information on DRF, fair housing, employment, transportation, and vocational rehabilitation.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness of DRF programs and services to adults with disabilities, their family members, and caregivers.
c. Attendees included one staff member and 11 individuals who were residents with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

7. Arc of Broward
a. Topics included information on DRF, education/transition services, accessible transportation, Social Security eligibility process, employment services, immigration issues and abuse and neglect.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness on DRF programs and services we offer to individuals with a wide range of disabilities and to the Arc of Broward Strengthening Program staff.
c. Attendees included 10 staff from the Arc of Broward, Department of Children and Families, and Children Services.

8. Bridges at Pahokee
a. Topics included information on DRF and the programs and services offered, housing, education, Representative Payee, healthcare and employment.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness to the public assistance programs and community organizations in rural areas of Florida on the programs and services DRF provides to people with disabilities.
c. Attendees included 3 staff at Bridges at Pahokee - Outreach Coordinator, Child Development Specialist, and the Navigator.

9. CAPI Accessibility & Disability Awareness Training March 2025
a. Topics included information on DRF and the programs and services provided, explanation of Title I, II, and III of the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), and a hands-on educational exercise.
b. The purpose was to educate the City of St. Petersburg staff on disabilities and the ADA, and participate with experiential learning.
c. Attendees included 16 City of St. Petersburg staff, along with Human Resources, who work with the public and constituents.

10. Center for Independent Living (CIL) of Broward Rights Training and Outreach July 2025
a. Topics included information on DRF and the programs and services provided, as well as voting rights, explanation of the PAIMI grant, and the PAC (PAIMI Advisory Council).
b. The purpose was to educate attendees about rights, voting rights and Disability Rights Florida services, and to solicit input about the needs of individuals with disabilities.
c. Attendees included 30 youth-aged individuals who have a diagnosis of learning disability and/or autism spectrum disorder, as well as CIL staff.

11. Center for Independent Living (CIL) of Broward Rights Training and Outreach June 2025
a. Topics included information on DRF and the programs and services provided, as well as voting rights, explanation of the PAIMI grant, and the PAC (PAIMI Advisory Council).
b. The purpose was to educate attendees about rights, voting rights and Disability Rights Florida services and solicit input about the needs of individuals with disabilities.
c. Attendees included 30 youth aged individuals who have a diagnosis of learning disability and/or autism spectrum disorder, as well as CIL staff.

12. City of Sunrise Social Services Advisory Board
a. Topics included information on DRF and the programs and services provided, mental health services, resources, Medicaid, and Social Security eligibility.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness on the programs and services DRF provides to individuals with disabilities in Florida.
c. Attendees included volunteers who serve on the Advisory Board and professional and administrative staff.

13. Community Collaborative Meeting - Working Together for Hendry & Glades Counties
a. Topics included information on Disability Rights Florida, assistive technology, ADA compliance for websites, Social Security eligibility process, housing, protected Medicaid, and Medicare Savings Program.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness about Disability Rights Florida (DRF) and the programs and services DRF offers to people with disabilities living in underserved communities.
c. Attendees included 10 healthcare providers, agency providers, and the residents of Lee, Hendry, and Glades counties.

14. Council on Aging Martin County Hobe Sound Meal Site Rights Training and Outreach
a. Topics included information about Disability Rights Florida and mental health rights training.
b. The purpose was to educate attendees about their rights and Disability Rights Florida services, and to solicit input about the needs of individuals with disabilities.
c. Attendees included 12 older adults with disabilities.

15. DBS Annual Statewide conference
a. Topics included two programs of the Social Security Administration, work incentives, statutory blindness, benefits planning and resources for removing barriers to employment.
b. The purpose was to educate Division of Blind Services (DBS) counselors on Social Security Administration’s programs and work incentives to remove barriers to employment for the individuals with disabilities that they serve.
c. Attendees included 91 Division of Blind Services staff.

16. Disability Rights Presentation at Alachua Co. Emergency Preparedness Expo
a. Topics included an overview of Disability Rights Florida, as well as a person’s rights under the ADA and Rehab Act during and after a disaster.
b. The purpose was to educate people with disabilities on their rights and access needs before, during and after a disaster.
c. Attendees included 30 people with disabilities and older adults, as well as 10 vendors.

17. DRF & Special Education 2024
a. Topics included an overview of Disability Rights Florida and special education.
b. The purpose was to increase knowledge on the P&A system, FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education), least restrictive environment, discipline, and serious bodily injury.
c. Attendees included approximately 15 law students studying the rights of individuals with disabilities.

18. FDLRS NEFEC Summer Institute
a. Topics included an overview of Disability Rights Florida and how DRF assists students with disabilities.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness about Disability Rights Florida(DRF) and the programs and services DRF provides to students with disabilities in Florida.
c. Attendees included 55 educators, parents of students with disabilities, school administrators, local and state vendors.

19. Federation of Families of Florida, Inc. (Be Well Center) - South Bay Chapter
a. Topics included an overview of Disability Rights Florida.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness of the programs and services DRF provides to families caring for children and youth with significant mental health conditions. Additionally, DRF received input about the needs of individuals with significant mental health conditions to maintain independence and integration in the community.
c. Attendees included 10 individuals who worked at the Federation of Families.

20. Florida Council of the Blind 72nd Annual Convention
a. Topics included information on Disability Rights Florida.
b. The purpose was to address issues pertaining to best practices, responsibilities, and self-advocacy to individuals with blindness and visual impairments.
c. Attendees included 65 individuals with blindness, the visually impaired, their family members, caregivers, guardians, and state and local vendors.

21. Florida Military Family Special Needs Network Meeting August 2025
a. Topics included an overview of Disability Rights Florida, education concerns, Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) eligibility process and waitlist, mental health, and veterans.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness of DRF programs and services to the Exceptional Family Member Program coordinators who work with active military members with a wide range of disabilities.
c. Attendees included 43 Florida Military Family Special Needs Network members, public safety departments, school districts, and government agencies.

22. FSU Social Work Professions Presentation
a. Topics included an overview of Disability Rights Florida, grant funding, TBI, systemic advocacy, and voting.
b. The purpose was to introduce upcoming Master of Social Work graduates to the P&A (Protection & Advocacy) system and discuss grant funding and eligible individual/micro and systemic/macro advocacy activities undertaken by professional staff at DRF.
c. Attendees included 19 Master of Social Work Students and their Professor.

23. Glades PATCH 3rd Tuesday's Meeting
a. Topics included information on Disability Rights Florida and the programs and services offered.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness of the DRF services we provide to the disability community in Florida.
c. Attendees included 24 individuals including administrative staff, Board of Directors, and staff from local social service organization.

24. Hands of Grace Family Ministries
a. Topics included information on Disability Rights Florida, Medicaid denials, group home complaints, speech therapy resources, education and transition.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness on the programs and services DRF provides to individuals with disabilities in the Haitian community of Lake Worth and surrounding areas.
c. Attendees included 50 individuals with autism and their families.

25. New Vision for Independence
a. Topics included information on Disability Rights Florida, how to advocate for equal access within the community, supported decision making, alternatives to guardianship, caregiver services, transportation, Medicaid, and the Division of Blind Services.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness of DRF programs and services to adults, their family members and caregivers, with visual impairments or blindness who are consumers at New Vision for Independence.
c. Attendees included 34 individuals in a support group for individuals who are visually impaired and blind, their family members, and caregivers.

26. Palm Beach County Public Safety Department - Victim Services Division (Belle Glade)
a. Topics included information on Disability Rights Florida and the programs and services offered.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness to the public assistance programs and community organizations in rural areas of Florida on the programs and services DRF provides to people with disabilities.
c. Attendees included 4 staff members at the Palm Beach County Victim Services.

27. PIP Education rights and Inclusion 2025
a. Topics included information on Disability Rights Florida, transition services, FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education), least restrictive environment, post-secondary education, conflict resolution, individual education plans, and discipline.
b. The purpose was to increase knowledge of participants’ educational rights for students with disabilities in public schools.
c. Attendees included 25 individuals with disabilities and their families.

28. Presentation FSU Social Work in Healthcare Settings
a. Topics included information on Disability Rights Florida, assistive technology, brain injury awareness, durable medical equipment, voting rights, supportive decision making, and vocational rehabilitation programs.
b. The purpose was to provide awareness to upcoming graduates from the school of social work about DRF programs and services prior to their transition into working directly in the community and with PWD in various healthcare settings.
c. Attendees included 11 students in the Master of Social Work program and their professor.

29. Presenting Your Medicaid Fair Hearing Webinar
a. Topics included how to advocate for Medicaid during a Fair Hearing.
b. The purpose was to provide an overview of the Fair Hearing process and how to prepare their case in Medicaid Fair Hearings.
c. Attendees included 66 individuals virtually.

30. Reasonable Accommodations Webinar for DRF
a. Topics included Disability Rights Florida, the Client Assistance Program (CAP) and reasonable accommodations in the workplace.
b. The purpose was to explain reasonable accommodations, the interactive process, and documentation needed to support the need for accommodations.
c. Attendees included 45 individuals.

31. State Voices Florida's Partner Spotlight Month of July (Virtual) Table Meeting
a. Topics included information about Disability Rights Florida.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness on the programs and services DRF offers to people with a wide range of disabilities in Florida.
c. Attendees included 100 individuals via Zoom.

32. The Canaan Center/Omega Health Services
a. Topics included information on Disability Rights Florida and the programs and services offered.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness of DRF services to adults with a wide range of disabilities at the Canaan Center.
c. Attendees included 21 individuals, including the director of Canaan Center, Adult Day Training program members, and staff.

33. Transition Guide Education
a. Topics included information on Disability Rights Florida and transition services.
b. The purpose was to educate students with disabilities and their families on transition-related laws, protections, and services.
c. Attendees included about 4000 individuals who attended Family Café and Visions Conferences.

34. University of Florida Center for Autism & Related Disabilities
a. Topics included information on Disability Rights Florida, Social Security eligibility, transition services, education, guardianship and supported decision making.
b. The purpose was to educate and provide awareness about Disability Rights Florida (DRF) and the programs and services DRF can provide to parents, grandparents, caregivers, and guardians caring for individuals with Autism and related disabilities.
c. Attendees included 21 individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers, as well as state and local vendors.

C. Agency Outreach

Describe the agency's outreach efforts to previously un-served or underserved individuals including minority communities. Disability Rights Florida (DRF) provided 20 outreach events to un-served or underserved individuals including minority communities.

1.14th Annual Back 2 School Community Resource Fair = DRF staff tabled this event, which targeted the rural and underserved county of Gadsden and surrounding counties. DRF staff provided information about DRF's programs and services to Midway, Havana, and surrounding communities to students and parents of school-age children with and without disabilities. There were 200 people in attendance.

2. Bradford County 27th Annual Strawberry Festival = DRF provided information on the programs, services, and resources DRF provides to individuals with disabilities. This outreach was geographically targeted to the rural community of Bradford County and the surrounding rural counties (Baker, Columbia, Gilchrist, and Levy). 800 individuals with and without disabilities received information.

3. Calhoun County Back to School Bash = DRF staff tabled the Calhoun County Back to School event at W.T. Neal Civic Center in Calhoun County, FL. DRF staff provided information about DRF's programs and services to Blountstown and the surrounding communities to 816 students and parents of school-age children with and without disabilities.

4. Community Day and Fall Seed Giveaway = DRF staff discussed and provided information on health insurance, Social Security eligibility assistance, traumatic brain injury (TBI), mental health resources, transition services, disaster preparedness and disaster relief information. There were 65 individuals with and without disabilities at this event. This event's efforts targeted the unserved/underserved population of Jefferson, Madison and surrounding counties.

5. Department of Health Jefferson County Community Resource Event September 2025 = DRF staff participated in the monthly community resource event hosted by the Jefferson County Department of Health on September 3, 2025. The efforts towards this event were to the un-served/underserved population of Jefferson County. 8 individuals with disabilities, residents of Monticello, parents and their children, and local vendors were in attendance.

6. Doctor’s Memorial Hospital’s Health & Wellness Expo 2025 = DRF staff were able to discuss the following disability-related issues: Division of Blind Services, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, transition services, housing, employment, ADA accommodations, and transportation. The efforts towards this event were to the un-served/underserved population of Taylor County which is considered rural. 350 individuals with and without disabilities, caregivers and family members, residents of Perry, hospital staff, and local and state vendors were in attendance.

7.FDLRS NEFEC Summer Institute = The FDLRS Summer Institute was created to educate and train educators and parents from Bradford, Baker, Suwannee, Lafayette, Columbia, Madison, Union, and Hamilton Counties on transition services, housing, transportation services in rural communities, services for TBI individuals, and mental health services in schools. The efforts of this event were towards the un-served/underserved populations in Bradford County. 55 individuals were in attendance, including educators, parents of students with disabilities, school administrators, and local and state vendors.

8. Florida Department of Health Jackson County April Health Fest = DRF staff provided awareness and education on the services offered by DRF to 85 individuals with and without disabilities, family members, caregivers, and state and local vendors. The efforts of this event were towards the un-served and underserved population of Jackson, Calhoun, and Liberty counties.

9.Florida Department of Health Jefferson County Community Resource Event July 2025 = DRF staff participated in a monthly community resource event to discuss topics such as Social Security, Medicaid, disability funding, and emergency preparedness. 10 individuals were present. Efforts towards this event were to the un-served/underserved population of Jefferson County (rural).

10. Florida Department of Health Lafayette County Community Resource Fair 9/25 = DRF staff participated in a monthly community resource event to discuss topics such as Social Security eligibility, home modifications, durable medical equipment, affordable housing, healthcare, Medicaid, Medicare, and vocational rehabilitation. This event targeted individuals with disabilities in an un-served/underserved rural county. 75 individuals with disabilities, residents of Monticello, parents, and state and local vendors were present.

11. Florida Department of Health Lafayette County Community Health Wellness Event 4/25 = DRF staff met with 150 individuals with disabilities, their caregivers, family members, and guardians to provide information on transition services, accessible transportation for the local rural counties, education, and Social Security. This project targeted rural counties of Madison, Lafayette, Hamilton, and Suwanee.

12. Florida Department of Health Madison County Community Resource Event = DRF staff met with 30 individuals with and without disabilities, their caregivers, family members and local vendors to discuss Social Security, transition services, affordable housing, vocational rehabilitation programs, regaining employment, and barriers to work. Efforts towards un-served and underserved population of Madison County.

13. Hardee County Back to School Bash = DRF staff provided information about DRF's programs and services to Wauchula and the surrounding communities to 450 students, parents of school-age children with and without disabilities. Topics included Social Security, accessible transportation, housing, education and transition services. The event was targeted to the rural county of Hardee, and surrounding rural counties, which are underserved communities.

14. Holiday Village & BeLighted Bike Ride = DRF spoke with about 1000 individuals at this event in Key West about our services, accessibility, benefits, education, and Social Security. The event targeted Monroe County, which is underserved.

15. Hurricane Preparedness Training for Adults = DRF spoke with 26 people with and without disabilities about our agency, accessibility, and post-secondary education accommodations. This event targeted Monroe County, which is underserved and rural.

16. North Florida Wildflower Festival 2025 = DRF spoke with 150 individuals about our agency, housing, transportation, Social Security, and employment opportunities for those with disabilities. This event targeted the un-served/underserved population of Calhoun, Jackson, and Liberty counties.

17. NWF Health Connects - Circuit 14 Resource Expo = DRF staff met with 125 individuals to provide information about our agency, supported decision making, access to voting, transportation, transition services, and mental health resources. This event's efforts were towards the un-served/underserved population of Jackson County.

18. Palm Beach County Back to School Event - PBC State College - Belle Glade = DRF staff met with 250 individuals to discuss our agency, housing, transportation, Social Security, education, and voting. This event targeted the underserved communities of Belle Glade, Clewiston and surrounding areas.

19. Resource Fair Bernstein Park, Stock Island = DRF staff met with 100 individuals to discuss our services, education, Medicaid waiver, access to mental health services and Social Security. This event targeted an underserved area in the Florida Keys.

20. The Annual Hendry/Glades Community Health Fair = DRF staff met with roughly 500 individuals to provide information about our agency and services, education, transition, Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD), guardianship, Representative Payee program, durable medical equipment, and employment. This outreach was geographically targeted to the un-served/underserved population of Hendry and Glades Counties in need of food and resources that may be able to assist individuals with disabilities and immediate health-related needs.

D. Information Disseminated To The Public By Your Agency

1. Agency Staff Interviewed or Featured on Radio and TV 1

2. Articles about CAP Featured in Newspaper/Magazine/Journals 1

3. PSAs/Videos Aired about the CAP Agency 0

4. Publications/Booklets/Brochures Disseminated by the Agency 34793

5. Number of Times CAP Exhibited at Conferences, Community Fairs, etc. 42

6. Other 21

Please explain below Podcast episodes (6), videos (6), and blogposts (9) related to CAP and ADA (Title 1) are on the Disability Rights Florida website. Below are the number of downloads and views for fiscal year 2024.

• Podcast
o Our Toolkit to Tackle Life’s Milestones – 82 downloads
o Investing in the Success of Employees with Disabilities – 67 downloads
o Services for Veterans with Disabilities – 52 downloads
o Finding and Keeping Quality Employment – 68 downloads
o Barriers to Employment – 97 downloads
o What is the Client Assistance Program – 192 downloads
o
• Blog
o How to Request a Work Accommodation - 3,434 views
o The Working People with Disabilities Program: How Employment & Independence Go Hand-in-Hand - 1,950 views
o The Legacy of the 504 Sit-In: Why the Fight for Disability Rights Continues - 209 views
o 35 Years of the ADA: What Has Changed, And What Still Needs To – 98 views
o Competitive Integrated Employment: A Workplace Where We All Thrive – 3061 views
o 5 Reasons to Hire People with Disabilities – 5013 views
o A Quick Guide to Disability Education Terms – 4343 views
o Blind Americans Equality Day – 1940 views
o Client Assistance Program 38th Anniversary: Thanks to the Rehabilitation Act – 12 views

• Videos
o An End to Sheltered Work – 606 views
o What are Vocational Rehabilitation Services? – 9017 views
o What Do P&As Do? – 1226 views
o Transitioning to Adulthood Explained – 436 views
o Employment Accommodations Explained – 585 views
o CAP Training Module – 92 views

E. Information Disseminated About Your Agency By External Media Coverage

Describe the various sources and information disseminated about your agency by an external source. Not applicable

Part II. Individual Case Services

A. Individuals served

1. Individuals who are still being served as of October 1 (carryover from prior year) 54

2. Additional individuals who were served during the year 129

3. Total individuals served (Lines A1+A2) 183

4. Individuals (from Line A3) who had multiple case files opened/closed this year. 5

5. Individual still being served as of September 30 (Carryover to next year. This total may not exceed Line A3.) 28

B. Problem areas

1. Individual requests information 2

2. Communication problems between individual and VR counselor 33

3. Conflict about VR services to be provided 42

4. Related to VR application/eligibility process 72

5. Related to assignment to order of selection priority category 0

6. Related to IPE development/implementation 7

7. Related to independent living services 1

8. Other Rehabilitation Act-related problems 4

C. Intervention Strategies for closed cases

1. Short Term Technical Assistance 113

2. Investigation/Monitoring 0

3. Negotiation 43

4. Mediation and other methods of Alternative Dispute Resolution 0

5. Administrative / Informal Review 3

6. Formal appeal / Fair Hearing 1

7. Legal remedy / Litigation 0

8. Total 160

D. Reasons for closing individuals' case files

1. All issues resolved in individual's favor 103

2. Some issues resolved in individual's favor 30

3. CAP determines VR agency position/decision was appropriate for the individual 2

4. Individual's case lacks legal merit 3

5. Individual chose alternative representation 2

6. Individual withdrew complaint 15

7. Issue not resolved in clients favor 3

8. CAP services not needed due to individual's death, relocation, etc. 0

9. Individual not responsive/cooperative with CAP 2

10. CAP unable to take case due to lack of resources 0

11. Conflict of interest 0

12. Other 0

(Please explain below) Not Applicable

E. Results achieved for individuals

1. Controlling law/policy explained to individual 67

2. Application for services completed 48

3. Eligibility determination expedited 1

4. Individual participated in evaluation 2

5. IPE developed/implemented/Services Provided 2

6. Communication re-established between individual and other party 35

7. Individual assigned to new counselor/office 2

8. Alternative resources identified for individual 2

9. ADA/504/EEO/OCR complaint made 1

10. Other 0

(Please explain below) Not Applicable

Part III. Program Data

A. Age

1. Up to 18 8

2. 19 - 24 27

3. 25 - 40 50

4. 41 - 64 83

5. 65 and over 15

6. Total (Sum of Lines A1 through A5. Total must equal Part II, Line A3.) 183

B. Gender

1. Females 92

2. Males 85

3. Nonbinary or Another Gender 2

4. Unknown 4

5. Total (Lines B1+B2+B3+B4. Total must equal Part II Line A3.) 183

C. Race/ethnicity of Individuals Served

1. Hispanic/Latino of any race 40

2. American Indian or Alaskan Native 2

3. Asian 2

4. Black or African American 43

5. Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander 2

6. White 82

7. Two or more races 9

8. Race/ethnicity unknown 3

D. Primary disabling condition of individuals served

1. Acquired Brain Injury 4

2. ADD/ADHD 13

3. AIDS/HIV 1

4. Amputations or Absence of Extremities 4

5. Arthritis or Rheumatism 2

6. Anxiety Disorder 8

7. Autism Spectrum Disorder 30

8. Autoimmune or Immune Deficiencies 4

10. Other visual impairments 4

11. Cancer 0

12. Cerebral Palsy 5

13. Deafness 7

14. Hard of Hearing/Hearing Impaired 3

16. Diabetes 2

17. Digestive disorders 2

18. Epilepsy 3

19. Heart and other circulatory conditions 1

20. Intellectual Disability 5

21. Mental illness 28

22. Multiple Sclerosis 0

23. Muscular Dystrophy 1

24. Muscular/Skeletal Impairment 7

25. Neurological Disorders/Impairment 11

26. Orthopedic impairments 13

27. Personality Disorders 0

28. Respiratory Disorders/Impairment 3

29. Skin Conditions 0

30. Specific learning disabilities (SLD) 8

31. Speech Impairments 0

32. Spina Bifida 1

33. Substance abuse 2

34. Other disability 0

35. Total (Sum of Lines D1through D34. Total must equal Part II, Line A3.) 183

E. Types of Individuals Served

1. Applicant of VR 73

2. Individual eligible for VR services currently on a wait list 1

3. Individual eligible for VR services not currently on a wait list 73

4. Applicant or individual eligible for Independent Living 3

5. Transition student/High school student 7

6. All other applicants or individuals eligible for other programs or projects funded unther Rehabilitation Act 31

Part IV. Systemic Activities and Litigation

A. Non-Litigation Systemic Activities

1. Number of non-litigation systemic activities not involving individual representation that resulted in the change of one or more policy or practice of an agency. 1

2. Describe the systemic activities conducted by CAP during the fiscal year and its impact on other agency's policies or practices. Working on the systemic denial of diploma deferral project partially funded by CAP, Disability Rights Florida accepted a case in Okaloosa County because the parent shared that the center school for students with the most significant intellectual disabilities was denying students the ability to defer their diplomas and stay in school until they turned 22. The Silver Sands Center School had developed a rubric which required students to make a minimum score of 70 in order to qualify for deferral. The rubric was designed to disqualify students who they deemed not independent enough to learn work skills. In working with Project 10, a discretionary project of the Florida Department of Education, Okaloosa County Schools and Walton County Schools were provided guidance in order to inform them that a work study program under deferment was intended to teach students with the most significant disability employment skills. Both districts revised their policies and procedures and practices and began allowing all students with significant cognitive disabilities to remain in school until age 22, if they needed continued special education in order to learn employment skills.

It is estimated that the number of people impacted was 110 as this was the number of students with significant disabilities attending Silver Sands Center School.

B. Litigation

a. Number of cases requiring litigation involving individual representation filed during fiscal year. 1

b. Number of on-going cases pending at start of fiscal year (carryover from prior fiscal year). 1

c. Number of cases resolved through litigation during fiscal year. 1

2. Describe the agency's on-going and completed systemic litigation activities involving individual representation. CAP represented an individual, J.C., when DVR closed the case against their wishes, contesting DVR’s decision to terminate services. The case implicated systemic issues related to informed choice, participant autonomy, and digital engagement in services. The case highlighted DVR’s failure to engage with participants remotely and failure to engage in meaningful communication regarding disputed employment goals. In numerous advocacy cases, CAP has observed DVR fail to maintain communication and fail to take participants’ employment goals seriously, which burdens and prejudices CAP’s consumers. In J.C., CAP sought to address these practices and obtain relief for J.C. CAP conducted discovery and litigated a multi-day hearing, but it ultimately did not prevail. The Administrative Law Judge allowed DVR to close J.C.’s DVR case. Even so, CAP intends to continue addressing DVR’s failure to appropriately honor participant autonomy, litigating as needed in an effort to spur DVR to respect individuals’ unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice for the duration of the DVR case. The final order was received on this hearing on 11/12/2024.

Part V. Agency Information

A. Designated Agency

1. Agency Type (select only one option): External-Protection and Advocacy agency

2. Name of designate agency: Disability Rights Florida

3. Is the designated agency contracting CAP services? No

4. If yes, name of contracting agency:

B. Staff Employed

1. Provide a description of all CAP positions Position Position Type % of Year Filled Person Years

Staff Assistant Clerical 67.00% 0.67
Staff Assistant Clerical 100.00% 1.00
Receptionist Clerical 100.00% 1.00
Sr. Paralegal/Legal Coord Clerical 100.00% 1.00
Paralegal Clerical 100.00% 1.00
Sr. Paralegal Clerical 100.00% 1.00
Executive Assistant Clerical 100.00% 1.00
Accounting Associate Clerical 100.00% 1.00
Advocacy Specialist Clerical 100.00% 1.00
Staff Assistant Clerical 100.00% 1.00
Senior Paralegal Clerical 100.00% 1.00
Staff Assistant Clerical 100.00% 1.00
Human Resource Assistant Clerical 100.00% 1.00
Program Operations Coordinator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Bilingual Advocacy Specialist Professional 100.00% 1.00
Advocacy Specialist Professional 100.00% 1.00
Social Media & Content Specialist Professional 100.00% 1.00
Sr. Advocate Professional 100.00% 1.00
Comm. & Database Manager Professional 100.00% 1.00
Staff Attorney Professional 100.00% 1.00
Staff Attorney Professional 67.00% 0.67
Director of CHS Professional 100.00% 1.00
Advocate Investigator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Sr. Advocacy Specialist Professional 100.00% 1.00
Training & Outreach Spec Professional 100.00% 1.00
Director Public Policy Professional 100.00% 1.00
Staff Attorney Professional 100.00% 1.00
Director of Investigation Professional 100.00% 1.00
Public Policy Coordinator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Sr. Advocate/Investigator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Sr. Advocate Investigator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Executive Director Professional 100.00% 1.00
Director of AEO Professional 100.00% 1.00
Intake Coordinator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Human Resource Coordinator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Advocacy Specialist Professional 100.00% 1.00
Bilingual Advocacy Specialist Professional 100.00% 1.00
Sr. Advocate Investigator Professional 100.00% 1.00
System Administrator Professional 100.00% 1.00
CAP Manager Professional 100.00% 1.00
Communications and Outreach Professional 100.00% 1.00
Advocacy Specialist Professional 100.00% 1.00
Sr. Advocacy Specialist Professional 100.00% 1.00
Sr. Advocate Investigator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Voting Access Advocate Professional 100.00% 1.00
Sr. Advocacy Specialist Professional 100.00% 1.00
Sr. Advocate Investigator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Special Event & Outreach Professional 100.00% 1.00
Team Operations Coordinator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Sr. Advocate/Investigator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Operations Analysis Coordinator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Emergency Management Coordinator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Director of Finance Professional 100.00% 1.00
Education Advocacy Program Professional 100.00% 1.00
Managing Attorney Professional 100.00% 1.00
Legal Director Professional 100.00% 1.00
Intake Director Professional 100.00% 1.00
Director of Litigation Professional 100.00% 1.00
Compliance Coordinator Professional 100.00% 1.00
Sr. Staff Attorney Professional 41.00% 0.41

Total Professional 46.08
Total Clerical 12.67

Part VI. Case Examples

Case Examples

Provide some examples of some interesting cases during the past fiscal year. A.L., an individual with epilepsy, contacted Disability Rights Florida Client Assistance Program (CAP) requesting assistance with an Administrative Review on the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) denial of client choice regarding the employment goal and medical school. The CAP team’s Advocate-Investigator’s (AI) investigation and intervention led to the overturning of DVR’s decision not to sponsor medical school. The CAP AI advised on DVR processes and policies, which led to an understanding of rights, as well as justification for DVR to sponsor the full tuition, books/supplies, transportation and rehabilitation engineering. An Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) was drafted by CAP and DVR agreed to the goal of optometrist and will be paying the full tuition at a private medical school.

C.O., an individual who is deaf, contacted Disability Rights Florida Client Assistance Program (CAP) requesting assistance with getting the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) to amend the Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) to include Gallaudet for a graduate program and sponsor books/supplies. The CAP team’s Advocate-Investigator (AI) worked with DVR to amend the IPE to include the program and books/supplies.

F.A., an individual with visual impairment, contacted Disability Rights Florida Client Assistance Program (CAP) requesting assistance with reestablishing communication with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and Division of Blind Services (DBS) counselors and concerns about the content of the Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) with both agencies. The CAP team’s Advocate-Investigator’s (AI) investigation and intervention led to revitalized communication with both counselors and IPEs with both agencies that include the job goal and services desired. The CAP AI advised on DVR process and policies, which led to an understanding of rights, as well as justification for the amendments to the IPEs to include the employment goal of Public Relations Specialist and services including college tuition, Orientation and Mobility Training, and Cooking Skills Training.

A.F., an individual with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder, contacted Disability Rights Florida Client Assistance Program (CAP) requesting assistance with reasonable accommodations in the workplace. The CAP team’s Advocate-Investigator (AI) determined through the investigation that some of the accommodations being requested were not reasonable as it involved working beyond the business hours without any supervision. The CAP AI met with the human resources team, and they agreed to allow A.F. to adjust the working hours as A.F. only works half a day on Fridays. They also allowed for a change of office space to a quieter area when A.F. is in the office (1x per week) and agreed to try remote work on the first Wednesday of the month temporarily to determine if it impacts the business. A.F. gained knowledge on rights and options.

A.M., an individual with Autism, contacted Disability Rights Florida Client Assistance Program (CAP) requesting assistance with receiving career counseling from DVR and obtaining written documentation of any counselor decision with substantive impact on A.M.'s services. The CAP team’s Advocate-Investigator’s (AI) investigation and intervention led to A.M. participating in a vocational evaluation which resulted in a mutually agreed-upon amendment to A.M.'s Individualized Plan for Employment. The CAP AI advised on DVR processes and policies, which led to an understanding of A.M.’s rights. DVR agrees to sponsor mental health counseling, on-the-job training, and placement services.

R.G., an individual with neurological disorders, contacted Disability Rights Florida Client Assistance Program (CAP) requesting assistance due to delays in service delivery (repairs to modified vehicle) by Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR). The CAP team’s Advocate-Investigator’s (AI) investigation identified the cause of the delay, and AI's intervention led to expedited delivery of DVR services.

K.T., an individual who is Deaf, contacted Disability Rights Florida Client Assistance Program (CAP) requesting assistance with receiving additional mental health counseling through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), timely communication from DVR counselor, and WIPA services with ASL translation. The CAP team’s Advocate-Investigator’s (AI) investigation and intervention led to DVR agreeing to provide funding for additional mental health counseling. DVR also agreed to transfer the case file to a new VRC to facilitate improved communication. The CAP AI was able to connect K.T. with a local Certified Work Incentives Coordinator who was able to meet in person and utilize an ASL interpreter to provide WIPA services. The CAP AI advised on DVR processes and policies, which led to an understanding of K.T.’s rights.

K.A., an individual with visual impairment, contacted Disability Rights Florida seeking assistance with a medical denial at Career, Technology, and Training Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CTTC). CTTC refused to admit K.A. based on a diagnosis of kidney failure and the need to complete dialysis. The CAP team’s Advocate-Investigator’s (AI) investigation and intervention led to an agreement with the Division of Blind Services (DBS) to sponsor training at Conklin-Davis Center, and an agreement with Conklin-Davis Center to accept K.A. for its residential training program with an admission date of November 4, 2024. K.A. is satisfied with this outcome as Conklin is in the city where KA wants to live, and its training programs are a better fit for K.A. than the programs available at CTTC.

D.A., an individual with cerebral palsy, contacted Disability Rights Florida Client Assistance Program (CAP) requesting assistance with accessing rehabilitation technology through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR). The CAP team’s Advocate-Investigator’s (AI) investigation and intervention led to provision of a rehabilitation engineering evaluation and the recommendation for all the technology needed by D.A.. The CAP AI advised on DVR processes and policies, which led to an understanding of D.A.’s rights. DVR agrees to sponsor all necessary rehabilitation technology that is not provided by another source.

J.R., an individual with anxiety, digestive disorders, TBI, C-PTSD, depression, panic disorder, paranoia, spinal stenosis, bulging discs, cervical-lumbar impairment, sciatica, neuropathy, IBS and short term memory loss, contacted Disability Rights Florida Client Assistance Program (CAP) requesting assistance understanding reasonable accommodations in the workplace and needing the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) to assist with paying for a required background screening for a training sponsored by DVR. The CAP team’s Advocate-Investigator (AI) explained how to request reasonable accommodations and the documentation needed to provide to employers. The CAP AI worked with DVR staff to get the background screening paid for through the revolving fund. CAP also pushed for additional services necessary as J.R. was unhoused. DVR agreed to sponsor mental restoration, physical restoration, transportation, vision exam, dental exam, and work with J.R. on completing the Rapid Rehousing application/referral.

H.B., an individual with neurological disorders, contacted the Client Assistance Program (CAP) requesting assistance with poor communication with their Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) counselor and rehabilitation engineering providers. The CAP team’s investigation and intervention led to revitalized communication with the counselor and the rehabilitation engineering department. While advocacy efforts were ongoing, DVR issued a decision letter denying home and vehicle modification services. CAP agreed to represent H.B. in an area level review challenging the decision to deny services. The challenge was successful, and DVR agreed to provide the services. CAP gave H.B. advice and guidance about DVR processes and policies and monitored progress until DVR began delivering agreed-upon services.

V.G., an individual with physical/orthopedic impairments, contacted the Client Assistance Program requesting assistance with securing promised reimbursements for self-employment expenses from Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR). As a result of the CAP team’s assistance, the VRC agreed to complete the request for area level approval for maintenance of $750 or more. Completion of this request allowed the reimbursement process to resume, and V.G. received the full amount that had been promised.

Certification

Reports are to be submitted to RSA within 90 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this report. Please be reminded that you can enter data directly into the RSA website via the internet. Information on transmittal of the form is found on pages 19 and 20 of the reporting instructions.

Name and Title of Authorized Certifying Official

I agree to submit this form by electronic means. By signing this form electronically, I certify under penalty of perjury that my answers are correct and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that an electronic signature has the same legal meaning and can be enforced in the same way as a written signature.

Full Legal Name of Signer: Allison Klein

Certifying Official Title CAP Manager/Director

By checking this box and typing my full legal name above, I am electronically signing this form. Yes

Date Certified (mm/dd/yyyy) 2025-12-17

OMB Notice

OMB Control Number: 1820-0528, approved for use through 07/31/2023

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless such collection displays a valid OMB control number. Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 16 hours per response, including time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. The obligation to respond to this collection is required to obtain or retain a benefit (Section 13 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended). Send comments regarding the burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20202-4537 or email ICDocketMgr@ed.gov and reference the OMB Control Number 1820-0528. Note: Please do not return the completed form to this address.

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